Mormon Tabernacle Choir has new president

Tuesday , March 18, 2014 - 3:18 PM

Rachel Trotter

SALT LAKE CITY -- Ron Jarrett was in Frankfurt, Germany, in the 11th month of a 23-month mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when he got the call to serve as the new president of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

"I would say it was a huge surprise," Jarrett said in a phone interview.

He now has been serving in the calling for about seven weeks and is learning quickly about his duties and responsibilities.

Jarrett sang with the choir from 1999 to 2008 and is the only choir president who has been a choir member.

In his new role, he handles the business sideof things -- the finances andscheduling. Withabout 390 members of the choir,100 members of the orchestra, 30 members of the bell choir and 200 volunteerswho help with wardrobe and othertasks, Jarrett takes his new responsibilities seriously and does all he can to support this dedicated group of people.

"I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and recognize the great trust that has been placed on me," Jarrett said. "I’m excited for the opportunity to take our music to every generation and bringgreat hope and peace to the lives of so many people."